Ruppert Landscape recently promoted Jeff Mullen to vice president of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and strategic finance.
Since joining Ruppert Landscape in 2023 as director of M&A and strategic finance, Mullen has played a key role in advancing the company’s long-term growth strategy. In his new role, he will continue to oversee the sourcing, evaluation, negotiation and execution of strategic acquisitions while also leading financial initiatives that support Ruppert’s continued expansion.
“Jeff has been instrumental in developing and executing our M&A strategy over the past two years,” said Rich Kang, president of Ruppert Landscape. “His financial expertise, strategic mindset and collaborative approach have helped guide us through several successful partnerships that align with our culture and values. We are confident that his leadership in this new role will continue to positively shape our company’s future.”
Prior to joining Ruppert Landscape, Mullen served as a senior vice president at Jefferies, a global investment bank, where he advised private equity firms, management teams and other privately-held businesses on mergers and acquisitions. Prior to Jefferies, he was an investment banker at Harris Williams. He holds a bachelor’s degree from James Madison University and a Master of Business Administration from Georgetown University.
“It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that places such a strong emphasis on people and long-term partnerships,” said Mullen. “I look forward to continuing to partner with great companies and business owners who share our commitment to people, values and growth.”
Albaugh promotes new North America marketing vice president
Albaugh announced the promotion of Joe Mares to vice president, marketing, North America region. In this role, Mares will lead marketing strategy and execution across the region, overseeing new product development, field research initiatives, regulatory strategy and market positioning to support Albaugh’s continued growth in North America.
Mares brings more than 40 years of experience in the crop protection, specialty and industrial products sectors across the U.S. and Canada. His expertise spans technical development, formulation, product and business development and portfolio management. He most recently served as Albaugh’s director of global new product development, where he played a key role in identifying and advancing strategic opportunities for the company’s global portfolio.
“Albaugh has a 45-year history of delivering high-quality, cost-effective solutions to customers across North America,” said Jens Thorsen, chief marketing officer. “Joe has been instrumental in driving product innovation and expanding our offerings both here in North America and globally.
“We remain committed to bringing forward alternative solutions that best support our customers and are backed by rigorous field testing, strategic market insights and comprehensive marketing support. We are excited to have Joe leading our North America marketing efforts into the future,” Thorsen continued.
Mares holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from James Madison University and a Master of Science in entomology from Virginia Polytechnic University. He and his family reside in Valdosta, Ga.
Tree Trust executive director to step down in November
Tree Trust, a Minnesota-based nonprofit, revealed that Jared Smith, executive director and CEO, has decided to leave the organization, with his departure to take place on Nov. 20, 2025. He is leaving to take a position in a faith-based organization where he will continue his dedication to serving others.
Smith led Tree Trust through incredible change and growth, providing steady guidance and direction for the organization. He worked tirelessly to strengthen, refine and expand Tree Trust’s Career Pathways, Community Forestry, and Landscape Services divisions to meet the evolving needs of Minnesota and serve the community, according to the nonprofit.
The organization stated his leadership has helped cement Tree Trust as a respected organization in the community, strengthened relationships with stakeholders on individual, corporate, foundation and government levels, and he has grown the Tree Trust mission to a nearly $10 million organization. Tree Trust is grateful for his contributions and wishes him success in his future endeavors.
The board of directors has given board chair Michael Huntington full authority and oversight of day-to-day operations on an interim basis, effective immediately. Tree Trust’s mission, programs and services will continue without interruption.
“As we embark on this transition, our focus remains steadfast on the communities and people we serve,” said Huntington. “With the support of our dedicated staff and board, we will ensure continuity in our programs and services. Together, we will continue to ensure a bright future of transforming lives and landscapes.”
The search for a new executive director is underway, with a focus on identifying a leader whose core competencies align with Tree Trust’s mission, vision and values.
Aquatrols appoints Ben Pease to Midwest territory manager
Aquatrols, a producer of soil surfactant and water management technologies, recently appointed Ben Pease, Ph.D., as Midwest territory manager.
Pease brings more than two decades of experience in turfgrass science, research and applied agronomy to this role. A highly respected turfgrass physiologist, he has dedicated his career to advancing turf performance and sustainability through innovative research and education, according to the company.
Throughout his career, Pease has authored numerous peer-reviewed papers in Agronomy Journal, Crop Science and Applied Turfgrass Science, and has presented his research nationally and internationally. His expertise spans turfgrass physiology, soil-plant interactions, nutrient management and stress tolerance, all of which align closely with Aquatrols’ mission to improve turf performance through smarter water and soil management.
“We’re excited to have Ben joining the Aquatrols team,” said Wes Hamm, director of golf sales, North America. “His industry experience coupled with the strong relationships he’s built with distributor partners and industry leaders will assist in securing Aquatrols’ leadership position well beyond the borders of his Midwest territory.”
